An Ayurvedic and Contemporary Overview of Menstrual Cycle

Abstract

Ayurveda stands on the framework of tridoshas, sapta dhatus and trimalas. Apart from sapta dhatu, updhatu also plays an essential role. Artava, the updhatu of rasa dhatu is responsible for conception in females. Henceforth, the healthy status of Artava is of prime importance when we talk about reproductive health. Any anomaly in Artava and its functions has an impact on menstrual regulation as well as reproduction. The menstrual cycle is the cyclical events that appear in the endometrium of uterus to form visible flow of menstrual blood every month. Menstrual cycle in Ayurveda is termed as artavachakra. The word chakra signifies regular onset at regular intervals, just like a wheel or cycle. It manifests a periodicity of one chandramasa (28 days). Ayurvedic acharyas has not interpreted artavachakra into stages, but depending upon available references in Samhitas, it is divided into following phases – rajahsravakala, ritukala, rituvyatitkala. Abnormal menstruation is the most common and important cause of many gynecological disorders and infertility. The present paper emphasizes on the study of day, duration and events of menstrual cycle in Ayurveda and with that of contemporary science.